The Gift of Health

With the holiday season upon us, it’s time to do some serious shopping. Here are a few “Balanced Gifts” for the health-conscious people on your list.

For the yoga sect, Gaiam offers the next step in mats. The Taos Premium Alignment yoga mat has all the bells and whistles you can fit into two feet. In addition to extra cushioning and a high-tack texture, the mat features printed zones to guide hand and foot placement. It’s also free of phthalates, chemicals commonly used as a vinyl softener that have been linked to unhealthy side effects.

For the new mom, the Pura Kiki is the first and only 100 percent plastic-free bottle on the market. Made of stainless steel, the bottle is devoid of toxins and Bisphenol A, a chemical found in many plastic bottles that can cause adverse health effects. Pura Kiki can be customized with colorful silicone sleeves and converted from a bottle to a sippy cup, allowing it to grow along with your child.

A product perfect for the fitness buff in your life, the BodyMedia FIT system uses high-tech armbands to monitor weight-loss activity. The armbands are equipped with four sensors, and when worn all day they’ll monitor caloric output as well as sleep quality. Upload the data and log your meals onto the online Activity Manager for a clear picture of your health habits. The system also allows users to track weight-loss goals and progress.